The tropics are as beautiful and diverse below-ground as they are above-ground. Learn how to use knowledge about the natural variability in soil properties for the sustainable management of ecosystems and farms.
Understand what you need to succeed in this course and determine if it's the right fit for your learning goals
What you need before starting this As above, so below: An introduction to soils, ecosystems and livelihoods in the Tropics course:
Beginner-Friendly Course!
This course is designed for absolute beginners. No prior knowledge needed.
This course is perfect for:
Everything you need to know about this online course, from duration to certification
Soils form the foundation of sustainable development. They grow our food, fiber and fuel, are a habitat for organisms, buffer and purify water and safeguard archaeological legacies. It is therefore of vital importance to understand how soil properties vary across tropical ecosystems and landscapes, and how these properties affect biodiversity and livelihoods. So if you want to understand tropical soils and want to learn how to keep those soils healthy, this course is for you! You'll need basic knowledge of life sciences.In this course, we will go on virtual excursions to explore the major soils of five biomes: forests, mountains, grasslands, deserts, and wetlands. With the support of JRC and FAO, instructors from KU Leuven and ISRIC will explain which soils develop under certain conditions, what their most important traits are and how those insights can make land use more sustainable. Our partners from different research projects all over the tropics moreover will introduce you to their work and show you real-life examples of how they apply soil knowledge through engaging videos and case studies.
Difficulty Level
Intermediate
Some foundational knowledge required
Subject Category
Environmental Studies, Biology & Life Sciences, Energy & Earth Sciences
Part of our Environmental Studies, Biology & Life Sciences, Energy & Earth Sciences curriculum
Course Language
English
All materials in English
This online course offers comprehensive training with expert instruction, practical exercises, and a certificate of completion. Join thousands of students advancing their careers through quality online education.
Budget-Friendly Course
Typically around $49
Pricing may vary. Check the course provider for current promotions and exact pricing.
As above, so below: An introduction to soils, ecosystems and livelihoods in the Tropics isn't for you? Don't worry, explore these courses and advance your skills or learn something totally new.